Bargain Bites 2013

October 24, 2013

Our best bets for dining on the cheap in the Bay Area, broken down into categories from bar food to ramen to taquerias and beyond.

Darryl Bush

30of81

Banh Mi

Vietnamese sandwiches remain one of the cheapest meals around. Fresh, airy French rolls are slathered with sauce and stuffed with meat, pickled vegetables and jalapenos, usually for less than $5.

Saigon Sandwich: Others try to take its place, but the line is always steady at this classic takeaway spot. There are only two chairs and a tilted counter to eat at, but you won't need to stay long. The sandwiches are fresh and compact, with vibrant fillings like soft pork meatballs ($3.75) or the combination ($4.25), with pork and pate.

Vietnamese sandwiches remain one of the cheapest meals around. Fresh, airy French rolls are slathered with sauce and stuffed with meat, pickled vegetables and jalapenos, usually for less than $5.

Saigon Sandwich: Others try to take its place, but the line is always steady at this classic takeaway spot. There are only two chairs and a tilted counter to eat at, but you won't need to stay long. The sandwiches are fresh and compact, with vibrant fillings like soft pork meatballs ($3.75) or the combination ($4.25), with pork and pate.